Reaffirming its commitment to a
stronger and more dynamic SME sector, ahlibank has officially launched the
first edition of ahli tamkeen SME Academy, a comprehensive capacity-building
program designed to advance the capabilities of Omani entrepreneurs and SME
leaders. The three-month program brings together 25 participants from a range
of vital economic sectors and combines practical learning, specialized
knowledge and personalized guidance to help entrepreneurs strengthen their
business preparedness, respond effectively to changing market conditions and
unlock opportunities for future growth.
The program covers several key areas,
including financial management, access to finance, marketing and digital
transformation, and is delivered by Protiviti. Participants were selected from
SME owners who registered their interest in the program, through one-to-one
interviews with both Riyada Card holders and non-holders, to understand their
needs and the challenges they face in the market and in growing their
businesses.
The initiative reflects ahlibank’s
belief that the long-term success of SMEs depends not only on financial
resources, but also on the capabilities, knowledge and confidence required to
make prudent business decisions. Through a combination of focused workshops and
one-to-one guidance, the Academy gives participants the opportunity to examine
key areas of their businesses, sharpen their decision-making and identify new
opportunities. The program also encourages knowledge-sharing among
participating entrepreneurs, creating an environment conducive to learning and
continued development.
As an important contributor to the
nation’s economic diversification and private-sector development, the SME
sector plays a vital role in overall socio-economic progress. Recognizing this
role, ahlibank’s investment in the Academy reflects its broader commitment to
responsible and purposeful growth of SMEs. The initiative also reinforces the
bank’s alignment with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 and its emphasis on
entrepreneurship and private-sector development, supporting homegrown
enterprises in raising business standards, pursuing excellence and innovation,
and creating value that extends to the communities in which they operate.
Through ahli tamkeen SME Academy, ahlibank
continues to strengthen its position as a preferred banking partner for SMEs,
extending its role beyond providing financial solutions to helping businesses
build capabilities, enhance competitiveness and grow sustainably. By investing
in the development of Omani enterprises, the bank is contributing to a more
resilient and future-ready SME sector.
